Park Prescriptions

Did You Know that reducing the risk of chronic disease while increasing health and happiness can be as easy as spending time in your favorite park? Studies have shown that spending time in natural environments increases physical activity, and physical activity reduces the risk for obesity and many chronic diseases such as coronary heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, stroke and certain cancers. Spending time in nature also decreases anxiety and negative thinking and lowers levels of depression and stress.

Public parks have long been an underutilized healthcare resource. Parks facilities are open to people of all abilities, ages, socio-economic backgrounds and ethnicities and best of all- they’re absolutely free. With the rising cost of healthcare as a barrier for many, public parks can be the perfect solution to building a healthier community.

Parks & Gardens is partnering with area healthcare providers, public health agencies and other groups to help build a healthier New Hanover County by encouraging citizens to get outside and exercise!

Attention Healthcare Providers!
If you are interested in partnering with New Hanover County Parks & Gardens to promote physical activity and improve the health of your patients through the Park Prescriptions program, contact Jodi Rich at jorich@nhcgov.com or (910) 798-7629.